Safest cities in the world for Women Travellers

If you are a woman thinking of travelling solo or with a bunch of friends, or you’re planning on a mother-daughter getaway, look no further. Skyscanner has a list of places that promise to be fun, exciting and most importantly safe.

All these places boast of a low crime rate, high personal safety and low incidence of rape. Most have well-connected public transport systems and make concerted efforts to cater to the safety of female travellers. While it always pays to keep your wits about you, the 12 places listed here are some of the safest cities around the world for women travellers.

1. Tokyo, Japan

It can only be the world most awesome city for women. Get this… Tokyo has special crying rooms for woman. Yes, you read it right. Visit the Mitsui Garden Yotsuya hotel in the heart of Tokyo and have a let it out in one of their special rooms if you feel like it. Now while everyone needs a good cry now and then, it is your vacation after all, so go out and do some exploring. Soak in the culture by visiting the famous Sensoji temple, visit the master animator Hayao Miyazaki designed Ghibli Museum, get your girlfriends together for some karaoke at Karaoke-kan in Shibuya and don’t forget to stuff yourself with sushi. Incidentally, while Tokyo may be the world’s most populous city, it has also been ranked as the safest city in the world by the 2015 Safe cities index released by the Economist Intelligence unit.

Soak in the magic of the Far East at this magnificent city

2. Toronto, Canada

Toronto is the safest city in North America according to the 2015 Safe cities index; it is also the most fun. Toronto is a foodie’s delight and its multicultural character is reflected in its restaurants with cuisines from around the world. Have some delicious dumplings in Chinatown or visit an old polish bakery in Roncesvalles. If you’re up for it, make a day trip to see the Niagara Falls. You won’t be disappointed.

Anytime is a good time to gaze at the beautiful Toronto skyline

3. Dubai, UAE

If it’s shopping you crave, then Dubai is your answer. It has more than 50 malls ladies! Think of the sales! From the decadent Dubai Mall to the humble Karama shopping complex, there’s something for everyone. If you get tired of the consumerist onslaught, then head to old school Bur Dubai and hop on a traditional water taxi, the Abra. It takes you to the textile and spice souk, from where you can shop again. What? It is Dubai after all.

If at all you are worried about your safety, you will be happy to know that the UAE reports a low crime rate compared to the rest of the region. While women are advised to dress modestly and refrain from any public displays of affection, if you are aware of the rules and follow them, there’s no reason why you can’t have a fun and exciting vacation.

With its 50-odd malls, Dubai is paradise for shopaholics

4. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is ranked fifth in the Economist’s list of top 25 safest cities in the world. Violent crimes against women are uncommon, but because of the rare spiked drink, women are always urged to exercise caution. On the other hand, Amsterdam can be a wonderful holiday destination. If you’re on a budget holiday, stay at one of the many hostels. They even have a female-only hostel called Hostelle. Women can also safely visit the red light district and catch a glimpse of the Oude Kerk at the heart of it. Take a canal tour, have a beer at a pub in Leidseplein, take a selfie if you must against a windmill and then rest your weary feet at the most famous park in the city, the Vondelpark.

The best way to get the drift of Amsterdam is to explore it on a bike

5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting and fascinating city and the perfect blend of old and new. Explore the city on a cyclo and take in the sights and sounds including the wonderful architecture. If you’re a history buff, must-visits include the Reunification palace (associated with the end of the Vietnam war) and the War Remnants Museum. You can put your bargaining skills to test at the Ben Thanh Market and at Saigon square. When it comes to food, don’t leave Vietnam without trying a Banh mi. While Ho Chi Minh city does suffer from pollution and some chaotic traffic, crime is mostly restricted to petty crimes such as pick pocketing and solo women travellers have reported fairly safe travels in this bustling city.

Ho Chi Minh City is an enchanting blend of the old and the new

6. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich is ranked the third safest city in Europe on the 2015 Safe cities index. Incidences of violent crime are rare, with most criminal activities being restricted to pickpockets and vehicle break-ins. Now with the snow capped Alps looming in the horizon, how can you not fall in love with Zurich? In the daytime, head to one of the many museums and art galleries. At the Kuntshaus gallery, one can find collections of European art from all ages. To discover an Indian connection, go visit the Centre Le Corbusier, a museum designed by and featuring work by the famous Swiss architect. For the party animal in you, Zurich also has a lively nightlife.